Key Takeaways:
- Keep in mind that motorcycles are much harder to see on the road than other vehicles, and new riders should always be prepared to drive defensively.
- Choosing comfortable motorcycle gear not only offers protection in case of an accident, but it can also improve your riding experience.
- Maintain regular service on your motorcycle to avoid mechanical malfunctions on the road.
1. Assume Other Drivers Cannot See You
One of the best motorcycle safety tips to consider as a new rider is to assume other drivers cannot see you. Whether changing lanes or turning into traffic, other drivers may not see you as well as you think.
Also, it can be more difficult to perceive the speed of a motorcycle. For example, say a motorcyclist has the right-of-way as another vehicle prepares to turn right. The driver may inaccurately perceive how quickly the rider moves and turn into their lane prematurely, potentially causing a collision.
2. Always Have an Escape Route
Driving defensively means anticipating the next move of other drivers on the road. As a motorcyclist, defensive driving also means having an escape route. If a car turns out suddenly in front of you or slams on the brakes, where will you go to avoid the back of their vehicle?
Having an escape route in mind at all times could be the difference between life and death. The faster new riders get used to doing, the safer they will be.
3. ATGATT
Deciding how much motorcycle gear to wear is a personal choice for many riders. Some motorcyclists believe they should be able to wear as much or as little gear as they choose, especially in states like Illinois, where riders are not required to wear a helmet.
Others, however, preach ATGATT — all the gear all the time. For new riders, ATGATT is the safest choice when the likelihood of a mechanical error is higher.
While ATGATT may be safest, motorcycle gear can be expensive, so even if you cannot afford gear from head to toe, start with a quality DOT-certified helmet, gloves, and boots.
4. Choose Comfortable Motorcycle Gear
Choosing motorcycle gear that is comfortable (to a degree) can not only help you enjoy your ride but can also prevent unnecessary distractions on the road. Gloves shouldn’t be so tight that your fingertips hurt, and boots should fit properly without any pinching.
5. Avoid Music in Your Helmet
New riders should avoid any added distractions while they get accustomed to the bike and maneuvering through traffic. One distraction new riders should avoid is playing music through a helmet. At the early stages of riding, you want to be able to hear traffic around you.
6. Check the Weather Before Every Ride
Staying safe on the ride also means avoiding risky weather conditions. Another helpful motorcycle safety tip is to check the weather before every ride, especially if you plan to go a longer distance or ride on an interstate or highway.
Adverse weather can create dangerous conditions for even the most advanced motorcyclists. The last thing you want is to be stuck underneath an underpass in a hailstorm.
7. Work on Improving Your Skills
Operating a motorcycle requires more advanced motor skills than driving a car. Beginner motorcyclists should continue to work on improving their skills, especially maneuvers that can be useful when avoiding a road hazard.
Good skills to practice include:
- low speed maneuvering
- sudden stops
- feather your brakes
- U turns
While working on your skills, be sure to pace yourself and don’t go too far outside of your comfort zone or ability. Look up some local motorcycle classes if you want a safe opportunity to improve your skills.
8. Know your limits
Riding a motorcycle is invigorating. It’s easy for beginner riders to get carried away by the excitement and attempt moves that are outside their limits. This is especially for group rides.
Getting home safe after every ride is more important than trying to prove something or fit in.
9. Keep Up With Your Bike’s Maintenance
Keep your motorcycle well-maintained with regular service to avoid potential mechanical issues on the road. Regularly check tire pressure, chain, oil, filters, and battery life.
Additionally, since many motorcycles sit unridden through the winter, be sure to change the fuel before the first ride of the season.
10. Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near You
These beginner motorcycle safety tips can help new riders have a safe first season. However, if the unimaginable happens and you’re involved in an accident, having a motorcycle accident lawyer in your corner can go a long way.
The devoted team of motorcycle accident lawyers at Disparti Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers has the skills and experience to get you the compensation you may be owed. We also have a team of trial lawyers who can put up a fight against insurance companies should you need to go to court for your motorcycle accident lawsuit.
For a FREE case review, call us today at (312) 600-6000 and find out why thousands say… Larry wins!
